Filed under Jacksonville Living on September 19th, 2008:
Every Penny Counts When Saving On Your Grocery Bill
Every good shopper loves a deal and in today’s economy, saving money is more important than ever. Try these the tips the next time you go grocery shopping.
Member Discount Cards
Most grocery stores now offer member cards that are good for store discounts and savings every time you shop. You sign-up once, add the card to your key chain and you’re ready to save. Some programs even have added incentives,like cheaper gas if you spend a certain dollar amount in their store each month.
Top 4 Places To Find Grocery Coupons In the Store
Peelers- These coupons are found on the packaging or boxes of grocery items in the store. You can usually redeem them at the time of purchase. Just peel them off when you get in the checkout line.
Blinkers- These are the red machines that you’ll find right in the aisles. They blink to get your attention and they dispense coupons, often for the product they’re closest to. These coupons can be redeemed at the point of sale also.
Flip your receipt over and you will find a lot of coupons not only for grocery items, but for local services and restaurants.
At the front of the grocery store, usually near the entrance, you will find an advertisement with all of the specials going on for the week. If you don’t see it at the front, go to customer service and ask them for their weekly ad.
5 Tips To Save Big At The Grocery Store
Buy Store Brand Products- The packaging is less appealing, but the discounted prices make up for it. These generics often have them same ingredients, too. Compare the labels and see for yourself.
Eat Before You Go In- Don’t shop on an empty stomach. You’ll be more apt to buy things that are not on your grocery list.
Do the Math- When considering a product that’s sold in different sizes, it’s helpful to look at the price-per-unit to determine if you’re getting a good deal. You can find this information on the price tag that’s displayed on the shelf.
Watch The Scanner- Check your receipt to make sure you’re getting those advertised discounts.
Take Cash to Curb Impulse Buying- Especially if you’ve got a weekly or monthly budget for groceries, take cash to the supermarket, no credit cards, and only shop from your list.
Set up a monthly budget for your Jacksonville apartment to determine just how much money you have for groceries, then grab your supermarket loyalty card and go!